In the event she does not return to Ashcroft Manor for some time, I wish that our housekeeper ensures the day-to-day activities remain operational until my Elizabeth returns home. Since she was a child, Elizabeth has had a knack for figures and logistics. When she displayed an interest and I had no son to teach, I taught her the principles of running the estate and the surrounding city of Briarton.
If something were to happen to my wife and me, Elizabeth is formally named our heir. It is my wish that everything be passed to her, and not to my wife’s second cousin, who is our only remaining male relative. Elizabeth has my leave to use the manor as her own and live there for all her days, married or unmarried, as Lady of the House.
My Elizabeth, if you are reading this missive, the greatest treasure in this life has been having you for a daughter.
Signed and dated, Lord William Ashcroft
Charlotte dabbed her eyes with her handkerchief, careful not to smudge her face paint.
That old stick in the mud had a heart after all.
The queen rolled the parchment and slapped it against the table. “Signed, sealed, and witnessed two weeks before Fainan’s assassins claimed his life. Now, before the Council and the men of the realm have their say, I would like to discuss it with you first.”
She removed her spectacles and fixed each lady with a penetrating stare. “I have the decision to recognize Lady Elizabeth as heir to the Ashcroft estate or not.”
“But why does that matter? Why not let their relatives sort it out?” Lady Lorine demanded.
“Because,” Charlotte interjected, unable to contain herself, “Her Majesty is deciding who will becomeherheir after Lord Commander Griffiths.”
Lady Lorine’s face went ashen, eyes wide as if she’d been struck.
Queen Rowena’s smile turned razor-sharp. “Lady Charlotte demonstrates why intelligence is valued above flattery in my court.” She paced before the table like a general, the sound of her heeled slippers clacking on the white marble.
Charlotte inclined her head in acknowledgement of the compliment.
“Indeed,” the queen continued, “recognizing Lady Elizabeth as the heir to the Ashcroft estate would place her directly in the line of succession. An … unconventional choice, but not without precedent.”
She gestured to herself with mock humility. “After all, this kingdom has flourished under female rule. Our borders are secure, and the land has not burst into flames. One might even say, since my rule, after my father’s passing, life for many has improved considerably. The streets are cleaner, and our coffers are overflowing.” The queen paused. “Perhaps it is time to consider that competence matters more than gender.”
The queen stopped pacing and faced her audience. “All in favour of recognizing Lady Elizabeth Ashcroft as the rightful heir to her father’s estate?”
Manicured hands rose around the table, some eager, some reluctant, but unanimous, nonetheless.
“Then it is decided.” The queen smiled warmly and lifted her chin in the air, the picture of regal authority. “Lord Commander Griffiths remains my immediate heir as the eldest male of my bloodline, but should the gods claim him as well…” She paused for dramatic effect. “Lady Elizabeth Ashcroft will be next in line for the throne.”
